Thursday, June 30, 2011

4th of July Essentials

The 4th of July is only a few days away, which means firework festivities and beach fiestas. Before you start packing your bags for the long weekend trip home or you're headed to the beach, we’d like to make a few suggestions of some essentials you shouldn’t forget to bring with you.

For the weekend, think comfort and ease. In other words, go for simple versatile pieces rather than silk and heavy beading. Here’s a list to give you some ideas so your weekend will not only be full of unforgettable memories but you’ll look great in those photos with family and friends!

Posted by: Saeko

Patriotic Bathing Suit

Fedora Hat


Summer Beach Bag
Casual Flat Sandal


Sunglasses


Casual Sundress


Perfect Jean Shorts

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Gaga Joins Tumblr



It seems like lately, Lady Gaga is getting nailed for stealing and lacking the originality that we’ve all come to believe makes her her. First of all, she apparently copped her name from a Babylonian slave owner, who would’ve thought? We also hear that Gaga may have embezzled money from her “We Pray for Japan” campaign from her $5 wristbands she sold to benefit tsunami and earthquake victims in Japan earlier this year—that’s another story in itself.

Today, let’s talk about Gaga’s Tumblr page which was launched on Monday. Her Tumblr page, titled Amen Fashion, like her song, turns out to also be the title of one of her loyal fans’ Tumblr page. Knowing this, Gaga still wanted the name so her management company asked the fan via Tumblr’s Community Support to give up the name to her. The fan, apparently switched his Tumblr name to Amen Fashion1, but the website contacted him demanding a more drastic change.


Although Gaga did steal the name, didn’t she have a right to use her own song title as the name of her Tumblr page? Either way, her loyal fan can now say that Lady Gaga stole something from him. If you’re wondering about the Tumblr itself, its as weird and unexpected as anything else Gaga has come up with so far. There’s no such thing as bad publicity, right?


Posted by: Saeko

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Gisele Bundchen Covers Vogue Brazil July 2011 Issue



Gisele Bundchen graces the cover pages for the July issue of Vogue Brazil not once, twice, thrice but four cover pages! The gorgeous Gisele was photographed by Jacques Dequeker in the Amazon wearing cozy knitwear, natural makeup and even swimwear. For the other cover, she was photographed by Patrick Demarchelier in New York City where she was dressed in a sheer black dress, wearing red lipstick with curled hair and as you can see above and below, she is looking as fabulous as ever.
“How to select only one photo of her?” said Daniel Hawk, editorial director of Vogue. “There was no consensus, so we decided to publish four.” These photos were taken with a variety of themes: glamorous, military and summer swimwear. If that’s not enough Gisele for you, there will be 32 pages dedicated to Gisele’s photos inside the July issue and subscribers will get an additional fifth cover of the Brazilian supermodel which has yet to be unveiled, all to be released on June 30th. Keep an eye out for these four covers on the newsstands!
Posted by: Saeko

Monday, June 27, 2011

Bieber Fever at Macy's



Justin Bieber went to Macy’s yesterday to promote his new fragance as we mentioned in a previous post. He was an hour and fifteen minutes late to his platform because as he was walking into the building, some of the borderline insane fans surged toward him, forcing an undercover police officer to tackle him. As this Bieber madness went on, it didn’t seem that Macy’s tried to stop any of it. Why? Because all Macy’s executives can hear is cha-ching!

From WWD:

Macy’s executives were perhaps even more enthusiastic than the weeping girls, with Muriel Gonzalez, Macy’s executive vice president and general merchandise manager of cosmetics, fragrances and shoes, flatly exclaiming: “This is going to be the biggest launch we’ve ever had.” And that’s saying something, considering the previous benchmark set by BeyoncĂ© Knowles in February 2010 with her Heat launch in the same venue. Knowles’ scent was said to have sold $3 million at retail at Macy’s in its first month on counter.

The first 325 people were able to meet Bieber, while hundreds “camped out” in the store. If you guys haven’t seen it during the commercial breaks yet, Bieber’s heavily-invested commercial for his fragrance line is definitely increasing the fan base for his fragrance, Someday. What will he think of next?

Posted by: Saeko

Friday, June 24, 2011

Hailee Steinfeld Models for Miu Miu



A new superstar is on the rise and her name is Hailee Steinfeld. The 14-year old’s first advertisement for Miu Miu has surfaced and she’s upping the ante for models everywhere. Her stylist Karla Welch told The Daily Beast, “"We formed a relationship with them (Miu Miu) at the SAG Awards. Miu Miu is such a perfect fit for her. Throughout awards season, they were the dresses she wanted to wear." The new ad which dropped recently was shot by famed fashion photographer Bruce Weber of Abercrombie & Fitch.

After she stepped out in Prada to the Screen Actors Guild awards, she received endless praise and the same dress was featured on numerous summer covers. Steinfeld donned Miu Miu looks to the Baftas and Berlin Film Festival and sat front row at the brand’s autumn/winter 2011 show in Paris. Previous faces of Miu Miu include Katie Holmes, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Kirsten Dunst and Lindsay Lohan.

Posted by: Saeko

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Lauren Conrad is Forbes' Newest Lifestyle Contributor


If you thought Lauren Conrad is just another typical, shameless 25-year old reality TV celebrity that's taking over the definition of trashy television and entertainment for young adults, you might want to think again because she’s proving you guys all wrong. Reality TV star-turned fashion designer-turned novelist, All-American beauty Lauren Conrad is not your average MTV reality star. She is adding to her impressive portfolio by writing as a contributor for Forbes magazine. In her past, she has also completed an internship at Teen Vogue and contributed work at Allure and Lucky magazine as well. She currently runs two websites, two apparel lines-Paper Crown to launch this summer and LC Lauren Conrad, a successful novel series and just turned in her fifth manuscript for her fifth novel. Not bad.

Starting today, she will start a four-month project writing about her business achievements for Forbes’ Lifestyle section which will include writing on her fashion line, her beauty website and her publishing career. What will she come up with next? Stay tuned ladies and gents and keep an eye out for her contributions at Forbes!

Posted by: Saeko

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Cameron Diaz in Chanel

Courtesy of redcarpet-fashionawards.com

One of my all-time favorite actresses with her quirky personality and her infamous gorgeous smile, Cameron Diaz, walked the red carpet at the New York Premiere at the Ziegfeld Theatre. Cameron wore a minidress from Chanel’s spring 2011 collection last night to the premiere of Bad Teacher, her most recent film with Justin Timberlake.
She kept her outfit simple with tousled hair, pointy black pumps and completed the look with Casadei and gold Cartier jewelry. The Chanel dress is a tad bit on the short side and semi-sheer on top of that, but Cameron seems to pull it off. What do you guys think of her look?


Posted by: Saeko

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Versace and H&M Collaborate for Fall 2011


When I heard the news, I had to take a double look. Versace and H&M are collaborating? It seems too good to be true to think that one of the most exclusive names in high fashion are now going to be available at the most accessible and stylish names of trendy chic fashion. Women’s Wear Daily reports that Versace will team up with the ever expanding H&M this fall on a collection of womenswear, men’s clothes and home items. These hot items are to hit stores November 17. Versace will also put together a pre-spring collection to be sold online in select countries in January 2012.

According to The Telegraph, the womenswear collection will be dominated by dresses featuring studded leather, silk and colorful print, with accessories including high heels and costume jewelery. The men's collection will focus on sharp tailoring, including 'the perfect tuxedo', as well as belts and jewelery, while for the first time in a designer collaboration at H&M, the collection will include some homeware pieces, including cushions and a bedspread.

Donatella said, “I am thrilled to be collaborating with H&M and to have the opportunity of reaching their wide audience.The collection will be quintessential Versace, perfect for H&M and Versace fans everywhere.”

In the past, Donatella has declined offers to do a lower-priced collaboration. The Cut reported in 2008 that Donatella told the audience at a New York Times’ TimesTalk series, “"I respect everyone who does [those types of lines]. But the reason I didn't do it is because I work very hard to put the Versace line in the luxury section. I think to put the Versace line in H&M would confuse the brand." Take a sneak peek at the collection featured in Vogue UK as we anticipate the collection's arrival in November.

Posted by: Saeko




Monday, June 20, 2011

Tassels



After being featured on the Spring 2011 runways, it has become apparent that tassels have become one the hottest summer trends we’ve seen so far. Have you added the tassel touch to your wardrobe yet? If not, don't worry, this trend is here to stay and comes in a wide range of styles and accessorizes almost any item so there's no reason not to give these a try.

These embellishments can be found from belts and accessories to blouses and shoes, and this simple addition instantly can add that classic touch and ‘70s inspired vibe to any outfit. Check out some tassel-featuring outfits below as well as some of the newest items from our site.

Posted by: Saeko

Liberal Transformer Bag

Above It All Bag

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Prabal Gurung and Rye Rye Premiere 2012 Video



Rising fashion star and CFDA winner, Prabal Gurung collaborated with another emerging talent dance-rap artist Rye Rye to launch the collection with the music video titled “New Thing” for the premiere of his 2012 Resort collection. "I have always followed the multitude of fashion films created by other design houses and loved seeing all the different interpretations of the collections, but the idea behind this was to bring other creative minds to the table and inspire our customers as well as the YouTube generation," explains Gurung.

The entire music video focuses on and is driven by the fashion pieces in the video. "Everything from the repeating floral pattern to the LED light inspired by the graphic print on the shorts Rye Rye wears in the opening shot was taken directly from the collection," reveals Guring. "When Rye Rye came in for her first fitting we knew exactly the looks that would complement her and bring the collection to life. The hardest part was editing down the options." Gurung mentions that the collection’s hallmarks—bright pops and hot pink, yellow and green in front of a graphic black and white theme, florals, laser-cut polka dots, ribbon embroidery and hand-burnt sequins were rooted in artistic inspiration. The portraits of artist George Condo and Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama were one of the inspirations behind the video.

Of course, Rye Rye was the perfect choice in my opinion as well. "When I first heard one of Rye Rye's mix-tapes some time back I was immediately taken by how unique and dynamic her music was," says Gurung.

Posted by: Saeko

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Angie for Louis Vuitton



Angelina Jolie never seems to fail at conquering one heroic or wordly task after another. As the gorgeous actress, loving mother and respected humanitarian global leader that she has become, she is the latest star to pose for Louis Vuitton’s “Core Values” ad campaign. The image shown here was taken in Cambodia’s Siem Reap province with Angelina in her own clothes, no makeup and a Louis Vuitton bag hanging off her shoulder.

The “Core Values” ad, set to run for 18 months, will feature other big name celebrity humanitarians such as Bono so keep an eye out for future Louis Vuitton ads. For some reason, it has been noted that the bag over Angie’s shoulder is a discontinued style. Louis Vuitton’s executive president Pietro Beccari told WWD, “We are considering to re-edit it.” Good idea.







Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Congratulations, its a baby boy!





Model and actress Devon Aoki and her man, James Bailey have just announced this past weekend that they are the proud parents of a baby boy! The news first got out when Bailey tweeted the good news. The 28-year old model and actress who appeared in “2 Fast 2 Furious” is engaged to James Bailey. The couple had kept quiet about the pregnancy news but are now revealing the new family member. No wonder Devon’s been MIA for a while now! Bailey posted pictures of his and Aoki’s new son. Bailey also tweeted to Devon’s half-brother, “When are you taking this lil rocker nephew on tour?”

To fill you in a bit of background info on Devon, she began modeling at age 13 and even replaced Naomi Campbell’s place as the face of Versace. She has also walked the runway for Chanel Couture. Her half brother, Steve Aoki is a well-known LA-based DJ and her father Hiroaki Aoki, is the founder of the Benihana restaurant chain and former Olympic wrestler.

James also tweeted, “Celebrating the birth of our son and Devon and my anniversary yesterday is more than I could ever ask for. Our family keeps growing.” Congratulations to the beautiful couple!

Posted by: Saeko

Monday, June 13, 2011

Father's Day 2011



Is it just me or is the month of June just flying by? Hopefully, you guys haven’t forgotten about Father’s Day coming up in a week—and if it slipped your mind, good thing you read our blog! Take this upcoming day to celebrate and show Dad just how much you care. If you aren’t sure what to get for your wonderful father, don’t worry, that’s what this post is for. Check out some ideas below to help you make this day as special as it should be for your father.

Classy Businessman- Has your dad always had a sense of style that says “boss in charge” all over it? Upgrade his style and show your appreciation with some stylish and functional Father’s Day gifts. Grooming products for men are always a good choice while business wear (think tailored suits, blazers, slacks, button-up shirts) is also a popular choice. If you’re limited with your budget, sleek desktop accessories are also a simple gift—the more personal and customized, the better!


BBQ Man- I’m not sure what it is, but it seems that every true man loves grilling up a storm and serving a thick, juicy slice of BBQ’ed steak on the table. If this sounds like your father, encourage him to continue his hobby with some grilling accessories, BBQ cookbooks (so Mom doesn’t have to do all the preparatory work), or you can pick up some unique BBQ sauces to switch up the flavor from the traditional mix.


Tech Man- Is your dad a techcessory nerd that loves spending hours at electronic’s stores and drags you along so he can have an excuse to be there for hours? If so, you can add to his collection by grabbing some copies of the latest action DVD release or music album. If he’s more of a reader, you can get Dad an e-reader with some reads that he might like, technology and literature in one, it's brilliant. You can also check out portable speakers for his iPod or a wireless charging pad, the list is endless with the new gadgets that are on the market right now!


Sports Man- Whether your dad’s a professional tennis player or an avid Lakers fan, we all know dads LOVE sports. If he plays a specific sport, you can pick up some new toys and accessories for his game or a reuseable water bottle to keep him hydrated.
If he’s more of a spectator of the game, you can get some tickets to a local sports event so he can finally go watch his favorite sports team live in action.

Photo Courtesy of jettaguy2010

Me and Daddy- Keep in mind that as much as he’ll appreciate all your grandiose gifts, what’s most important is spending quality time with him. Plan ahead and take some time out of your day to do something you and Dad can do together next Sunday: father/daughter breakfasts, hiking in the morning, going to Fry’s electronics together (I can already feel his excitement…) Just do something you guys will both enjoy because these precious moments with his kids are priceless to a father.

Share with us your ideas! Which category does your dad fall under?

Posted by: Saeko

Friday, June 10, 2011

Michael Jackson "Thriller" Jacket to be Auctioned



I don’t think there’s a generation out there that’s skipped out on the talented works of the artist, Michael Jackson. There's no legend greater that changed the standards of pop music around the globe. Remember that bright red leather jacket with the black stripes Michael wore in his “Thriller” music video? This infamous black and red jacket worn by Michael Jackson in his “Thriller” video will be sold at a two-day Music Icons Exhibition in Beverly Hills. Estimated at $400,000, a portion of the proceeds will go to the Shambala Preserve, which is home to Jackson’s two Bengal tigers, Thriller and Sabu.

It still blows my mind to realize that the man who seemed to be an immortal artistic legend is now gone and slowly but surely, so are the invaluable treasures he’s left behind. Fortunately, his music and ridiculously brilliant dance moves will remain as a piece of our musical American history for well, the rest of time and no amount can buy that.

The jacket is one of the 600 items that will go on sale at Julien’s Auction Gallery which includes memorabilia from musicians such as The Beatles, Madonna and Lady Gaga, Frank Sinatra, Elvis and Justin Bieber on June 25 and 26.

Posted by: Saeko

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Casual Summer Dresses

Strapless Femme Instinct Dress

As the weather outside gets warmer and warmer, it only makes sense for us to also adjust our wardrobe along with it. But in this hot weather, who wants to make a fuss about finding the perfect outfit? That’s why we suggest keeping it simple. This asymmetrical tank dress falls in that category. With not much complication or fuss, you can literally grab-n-go! The adorable self-tie bow at the front accents the simplicity perfectly and the asymmetry of the skirt creates depth to a simple piece. If you want to add a bit more to your look, you can always accessorize without changing your look entirely.

Be on the lookout for more grab-n-go pieces including dresses, jumpers and rompers this season which will be sure to come in handy at those times you just don’t want to be stuck in front of the mirror just to make your outfit look right—because being at the beach seems much more appealing.

Posted by: Saeko



Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Boy Chanel Bag


Chanel knows best how to execute and deliver. They do it again with their newest Boy Chanel Bag which will be launched for the autumn/fall 2011 collection. When I saw this handbag, I immediately knew it had to be the brilliant work of Chanel.
This handbag encapsulates the masculine undertone which seems to be all over the runway this season and yet has all the qualities of a women’s handbag. The originality and traditional look of this handbag plays with the expected 1930s revival. This masculine undertone is neither modern nor androgynous, it has a more traditional taste with a “heritage appeal" and makes for the perfect combination of masculine appeal and feminine elegance.


Posted by: Saeko

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

CFDA Awards 2011





There may be no other event which draws a more well-dressed crowd than the annual Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Awards. The looks were sophisticated for the most part. Of course, the industry’s biggest fashion designers were all there at the 2011 CFDA including Marc Jacobs, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, Kanye West and Diane von Furstenberg just to name a few.
If you guys missed the show last night, let’s catch up with the highlights of the night. Michael Bastian received the Menswear Designer of the Year award from Gerard Butler, and Hal Rubenstein received the Eleanor Lambert award from Jessica Alba (who had on a lovely DvF dress).
Kanye West also made an appearance on the stage, announcing his love for Phoebe Philo. “I don’t get up on stage unless I really believe in something,” he stated. Of course, let’s not forget our favorite fashionista, Lady Gaga who also made her appearance in her outfit last night which was anything but dull. She stepped out as the CFDA Fashion Icon of the Year in a studded thong and 24-inch backless heels- yikes! Props to her for making it to the stage. Check out the full list of winners below and tell us what you think of the winners, appearances and outfits that made it out at this star-studded affair.


THE 2011 WINNERS:

Womenswear Designer of the Year
The nominees: Alexander Wang, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler, Marc Jacobs
The winner: Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler

Menswear Designer of the Year
The nominees: Michael Bastian, Patrik Ervell, Simon Spurr
The winner: Michael Bastian

Accessory Designer of the Year
The nominees: Alexander Wang, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler, Reed Krakoff
The winner: Alexander Wang

Swarovski Award for Womenswear
The nominees: Joseph Altuzarra, Ashley Olsen and Mary-Kate Olsen, Prabal Gurung
The winner: Prabal Gurung

Swarovski Award for Accessory Design
The nominees: Alejandro Ingelmo, Eddie Borgo, Jason Wu, Pamela Love
The winner: Eddie Borgo

Swarovski Award for Menswear
The nominees: Alexander Wang, Phillip Lim, Robert Geller
The winner: Robert Geller

Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award
Marc Jacobs

CFDA Board of Directors Special Tribute
Arthur Elgort

Fashion Icon Award
Lady Gaga

Eugenia Sheppard Media Award
Hilary Alexander of The Telegraph

Eleanor Lambert Founders Award
Hal Rubenstein of InStyle

International Award
Phoebe Philo for CĂ©line


Posted by: Saeko








Monday, June 6, 2011

Zombie Boy and Andrej Pejic Rock the Runway



Nowadays, models are no longer restricted to a specific look, size or even gender? On Saturday night at Rio de Janeiro Fashion Week, fashion brand Auslander hired two of the hottest and most controversial models around to walk in the show: Lady Gaga’s new friend and Thierry Mugler poster child Zombie Boy and androgynous censored model Andrej Pejic. Pejic walked the runway as a female model in Part I wearing long skirts, vintage shirts with “Oh Lord, I have Sinned” written on the front, and tailored jackets.

In Part II, Andrej returns to the runway in his male version with menswear pieces—imagine walking the runway for both male and female collections, now that’s a first. To finish off the night, Canadian model, Zombie Boy whose real name is Rick Genest, DJed at the label’s afterparty.

Posted by: Saeko

Friday, June 3, 2011

Bright Lipstick


If it hasn’t been on your radar yet, you can be sure to sight this contagious trend continuing well into the coming summer season. Whether in a bright orange or hot fuchsia tone, bright statement lips are all the rage right now. From celebrities to daring fashionistas, the best strategy from much trial and error seems to be to keep the rest of your makeup rather simple. Stick to a black mascara, light foundation and a hint of eyebrow pencil to balance things out.

Another useful tidbit—start with a wine-colored lip pencil. Apply this color to the top and bottom lip line, then apply the lipstick with a lip brush to blend the two shades for an overall effect of a rich, vibrant pop of an almost-neon color. To finish, lightly reapply the lip liner to keep the lipstick in place. If this look seems too daring to try during the day, test out this look for a night out with the girls—because you know they’ll be honest with you and your new look.

Posted by: Saeko


Thursday, June 2, 2011

Lily Allen Debuts New Fashion Line



After quitting the music business to start a vintage-clothing store with sister Sarah, Lily Allen has debuted her collection of classic pieces under the store’s name, Lucy In Disguise. Just to fill you in on her history in the fashion business, Lily has attempted fashion design before when she produced an eclectic collection of party dresses for the British chain New Look in 2007.

In her newest collection, there are eighteen pieces in all, each inspired by a specific decade’s fashions. For example, most pieces are named after trends or events from that era: a flapper-style dress is called Speakeasy, a hippie-inspired peasant dress is called Haight Ashbury, etc. Lily told British Vogue that she was hoping “to create vintage styles with more contemporary, clean lines” and to eliminate sizing inconsistencies between then and now. Lily also mentioned that future collections will be tied to tighter themes and will also contain “hero pieces”-which we’ll have to wait and see to fully understand.

Posted by: Saeko